The word Qigong comes from two Chinese words: Qi (pronounced chee), which refers to the life force or energy that flows through all things, and Gong (pronounced Kung or gung), which means skill or work. Thus, Qigong means "the skill of attracting or cultivating energy." The practice uses slow, graceful movements and controlled breathing techniques to promote the circulation of qi, or energy, within the body. Such movements can reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality, and build up the immune system. Some practitioners believe it can even improve many of the body's functions, such as the respiratory, cardiovascular, and digestive systems. While not all agree on all its effects on health, Western scientific research has found that Qigong "reduces hypertension and the incidence of falling in the aged population."**

For the past two years I have been attending a weekly Tai Chi class at our local community college. Our instructor includes a Qigong routine in each session as a warm-up before practicing our Tai Chi stances and forms. The routine consists of slow movements that are simple enough so that you can really focus on your breathing during the movements. One very simple exercise is pictured above:

Stand with hands in front of you, palms facing each other, several inches apart. Slowly bring palms to shoulder width, as though you are holding an expanding balloon. Bring hands back to first position, as though the balloon is deflating. Repeat four times, inhaling on the expansion and exhaling on the deflation of the "balloon."

While I don't know about the effects on the immune system or some of the other claims made by Qigong practitioners, I can attest to the fact that after going through the whole routine I feel more relaxed, and my muscles have lost much of their tightness. Focusing on my breathing drives any wayward thoughts out of my mind, and I am truly "in the moment." Because it is a great way of relieving stress, which has been found to contribute to so many illnesses, Qigong is bound to have a beneficial impact on one's health.

For an added benefit, try Qigong outdoors in a park, the perfect place to meditate and get your Qi flowing!

**Information taken from the website of the National Qigong Association USA.

I love watching the practitioners in the park...It is beautiful sight. I remember taking Tai Chi while a grad student, but the practice was too early in the morning! Isn't that too funny! Mt accupuncturist thinks it would be great for me to try again. gail

Thanks Rose, no wonder you are always cool as a cucumber! I had no idea you were a practitioner of ancient arts in addition to all of your other talens! Thanks too for the step by step approach. Now I have something to quiet my mind during those anxious moments when I cannot go out into the garden for relief. :-)Frances

Susie, it is great for relaxation, but also for balance and flexibility, which makes it a great exercise as one gets older.

ShySongbird, The main focus of our class is on Tai Chi, which is a kind of exercise that anyone can do. I would think the deep breathing would certainly help you.

Marnie, Unfortunately, the energy effects don't last until the next week's class:)

Roger, Quiet is good; definitely not quick:)

Cheryl, I am not an athletic person and I'd rather walk than do any other form of exercise. This class has been wonderful for me. Our instructor is 74 and amazing! I hope to be doing Tai Chi that long!

Sylvia, Originally, I was looking for a yoga class and took Tai Chi only because it fit my time schedule. So glad I did--I'm hooked on it now!

Rose, I'm all for "alternative medicine" whenever possible. I'm glad to see Western medicine beginning to study the holistic or naturalistic ideas of Eastern cultures.

Gerald, Actually I find the ritual and repetition very calming; besides, it's taken me over two years to learn one routine of Tai Chi!:)

Carol, I wish I could say I've done Tai Chi in this park, but I haven't. Once in awhile I'll do some in my backyard where no one can see me:)

Jay, Having a class each week forces me to practice. When I say I'm going to exercise or practice something on my own otherwise, I usually give up:)

MMD, Qigong classes are hard to find, but Tai Chi is much more common. I had originally planned to take yoga, but it met on Sat. mornings at 9 AM, which wasn't for me:)

I did Tai Chi for a while and there was something similar in that. However it was never spelt with a Q.The man in charge was always moaning about my back & trying to straighten it up & my chiropractor had told me I had slight scoliosis so it seemed futile & annoying that he kept saying this in front of the class, even though I had told him the reasons.

It made me more calm just concentration on my talking about it. You naturally bring that out in folks. When you donated to Operation Christmas Child and I was asking about you to our other garden blogging buddies. They just raved about you. It was nothing but the best of comments. So there should be really good karma all around you. Big hugs.

Tumblewords, I'd love to do yoga, but Tai Chi is easier for me:) I think both provide the breathing and meditative benefits.

Beverly, This is a great form of exercise for older people, not that I'm old, of course:)

Maggie May, Qigong is a little different from Tai Chi; it doesn't have all the set forms and movements. Shame on your instructor! I'm lucky to have a great instructor who recommends adaptations for anyone with physical limitations. She's 74 and has a black belt in karate!

Racquel, It's not as well-known as yoga or the martial arts. We just use a little of it in our class.

Sarah, Our class meets in a gym, unfortunately, but many Tai Chi classes do meet outside. Once in awhile I do practice in my yard.

Hip Chick, Thanks and thanks for stopping by!

Beckie, I think you would really enjoy Tai Chi--it's such a gentle form of exercise. The photo...I didn't realize till later that all day I had been going around with my middle button undone. Hope no one enlarges the photo, lol:)

Flowergardengirl, Thank you for such wonderful comments! I've seen your name in comments quite often, but lately it seems it's all I can do to keep up with some of the "regulars" I read. I hope many people contribute to your project!

I haven't tried either tai chi or qigong (yet.) I'm definitely a believer though, in eastern-style energy medicine and physical/spiritual practices that enhance energy. We have a local martial arts center that offers tai chi and qigong classes, as well as a local alternative medicine center co-owned by an old friend that offers free qigong classes once a month. I'm already interested, and your endorsement of these practices is further encouragement to give them a try. Thanks Rose!

About Me

I am a "late bloomer" when it comes to gardening. Born and raised on a farm, I have returned to my country roots. Recently retired, I am looking forward to being able to do all the things I always wanted to do but never had enough time. That includes gardening, of course!